Personal Property Memorandum Template

What Is a Personal Property Memorandum?

A personal property memorandum is a separate document referenced by your will that lists specific tangible items and who should receive them. Most states recognize this document as legally binding when properly executed, letting you direct where family heirlooms, collections, and meaningful possessions go without formal will amendments.

The real power is flexibility. When you want to give your grandmother's engagement ring to a different grandchild or add newly acquired antiques to the list, you simply update the memorandum. No attorney fees, no codicil, no complicated legal process. Your tangible personal property distribution stays current as your life and relationships evolve.

 

Is This Personal Property Memorandum Right for You?

You need this document if you're:

• Creating or updating your estate plan
• Distributing family heirlooms to specific people
• Dividing jewelry among multiple beneficiaries
• Passing down collections with sentimental value
• Giving furniture or household items to named individuals
• Planning for artwork or antique distribution

You definitely need this document if:

• Your will only has general residuary language for personal property
• Family members have already expressed interest in specific items
• You have valuable collections requiring clear distribution instructions
• You've made verbal promises about who gets what
• Previous family estates resulted in disputes over belongings

 

 

Why Thousands Trust Legal GPS Templates

Save Money. Attorney-drafted quality at a fraction of traditional fees.

Save Time. Complete your memorandum in under an hour.

Look Professional. Comprehensive legal language your executor can rely on.

Keeps You Out of Court. Dispute resolution provisions and survival requirements prevent beneficiary conflicts.

 

 

Get Protected in 3 Simple Steps

Step 1: Secure Checkout. Complete your purchase through our encrypted payment system.

Step 2: Instant Download. Access your template immediately in your account.

Step 3: Fill In the Highlighted Fields. Use our companion guide to customize the document for your situation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this template multiple times?

Yes. Once purchased, you can update and re-execute this memorandum as many times as needed. The template includes a Record of Amendments section specifically designed for tracking changes over time.

Is this document legally binding?

Yes, when properly executed according to your state's requirements and referenced in your will. Most states recognize personal property memoranda as legally valid supplements to a will. The template includes optional witness attestation for states requiring additional formalities.

Does my will need to reference this memorandum?

In most states, yes. Your will should contain language referencing a personal property memorandum or list for this document to have legal effect. If your will doesn't include this language, you may need a codicil.

Can I include vehicles in this memorandum?

Generally, no. Titled vehicles like cars, boats, and aircraft typically require title transfer documents and should be addressed in your will or through transfer-on-death registration. The memorandum covers untitled tangible property only.

What happens if I list an item I no longer own when I die?

The gift lapses. Article IV specifically addresses this situation, stating that beneficiaries are not entitled to substitute items or compensation for property that was sold, lost, or disposed of before your death.

Do I need witnesses or a notary?

Requirements vary by state. Many states only require your signature and a date. The template includes optional witness attestation blocks for those in states with additional requirements or who simply want extra protection against challenges.